If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls and looking for a way to elevate your favorite breakfast treat, you’re in for a delicious surprise! This recipe combines the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the freshness of strawberries to create a mouthwatering dessert or breakfast option. The end result is a delightful combination of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, juicy strawberries, and creamy icing. Follow along to discover how to make this irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of pre-made cinnamon roll dough (usually contains 8 rolls)
- 6 fresh strawberries
- Cream cheese icing (included with the cinnamon roll dough)
Instructions:
- Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Take out the cinnamon roll dough from the can and carefully separate the rolls. Cut each roll into quarters, creating bite-sized pieces.
- Strawberries:
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cold water.
- Hull the strawberries by removing the green leafy tops.
- Cut the strawberries into small pieces, roughly the same size as the cinnamon roll quarters. This ensures even distribution and baking.
- Assembly:
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the quartered cinnamon roll pieces in the prepared dish or on the baking sheet. Spread them out evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Scatter the strawberry pieces evenly over the cinnamon roll quarters, allowing some to nestle in between the dough pieces.
- Baking:
- Place the baking dish or sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for approximately 17 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are puffed up and golden brown. The strawberries will soften and release their juices, adding a delicious fruity layer to the rolls.
- Finishing Touch:
- Once baked, remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven. Let them cool in the dish for about 5 minutes to set slightly.
- Drizzle the provided cream cheese icing over the top while the rolls are still warm. This allows the icing to melt slightly and spread evenly.
- Serve:
- Serve the strawberry cinnamon rolls warm. Enjoy them as a delightful breakfast, brunch dish, or a sweet treat any time of the day!
Why You’ll Love It:
- Simple and Quick: This recipe is incredibly easy to make and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh Flavor: The addition of fresh strawberries adds a burst of flavor and a slight tartness that perfectly complements the sweet and spiced cinnamon rolls.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack, these rolls are versatile enough for any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun and tasty treat that kids will love to help make and eat. It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings and parties. Your guests will be impressed by this unique twist on a classic, and it’s sure to become a conversation starter.
- Comfort Food: Warm, gooey, and comforting, these rolls are perfect for cozy mornings and chilly days.
- Convenient: Using pre-made dough saves time and effort, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats with minimal fuss. No need to make dough from scratch!
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or add a sprinkle of nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The combination of the golden rolls and vibrant strawberries makes for a visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress.
- Delicious: The blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors is simply irresistible. The strawberries add a refreshing twist, while the cream cheese icing provides a rich and decadent finish.
Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls:
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the rolls soggy.
- Cut Evenly: Ensure that the cinnamon roll quarters and strawberry pieces are cut evenly for consistent baking and distribution of flavors.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If using a baking sheet, make sure the rolls have enough space to expand while baking. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Depending on your oven, baking times may vary. Keep an eye on the rolls and check for a golden-brown color. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of a roll; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before icing to prevent the icing from melting too much and running off the rolls.
How to Store:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream cheese icing contains dairy and needs to be kept cold to stay fresh.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This will help them regain their softness and warmth.
- Freezing: If you want to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the baked rolls without the icing. Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before adding the icing. You can also freeze individual portions for quick and easy single servings.
Final Thoughts:
These strawberry cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on a classic treat that are sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of sweet cinnamon, tangy strawberries, and creamy icing creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors!
Happy baking!